Parents' experiences, reactions and needs regarding a nonviable fetus diagnosed at a second trimester routine ultrasound.

OBJECTIVE

To conceptualize women's and their partners' experiences and ways of handling the situation before, during, and after second trimester ultrasound examination with the diagnosis of a nonviable fetus.

DESIGN

A grounded theory study.

SETTING

A Swedish regional hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Nine women and 6 men (n=15) were interviewed within a year of the event.

RESULTS

The core category was Unexpected change in life. Four categories that were encompassed by the core category emerged: (a) Deceived by a false sense of security; (b) Confronting reality; (c) Grieving; and (d) Reorientation.

CONCLUSION

These parents were unprepared for the diagnosis of a nonviable fetus. In addition to the crisis reaction, they realized that the sense of security they had experienced was false. As different care givers were involved, the need for a care plan was evident. Support from care givers was a very important factor.